052. Michael Fischman

Michael Fischman is a founding member and current president of the U.S. Art of Living Foundation, a non-profit educational and humanitarian organization whose programs have impacted more than 25 million people in more than 140 countries.

A former advertising executive with Ogilvy & Mather, he is also the CEO of APEX (Achieving Personal Excellence), the corporate training division of the International Association for Human Values.

“For the past twenty years, I have dedicated my life to sharing and growing on a spiritual path that has brought fulfillment and happiness to millions of people around the world,” says Michael.

He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida.

Michael’s site: http://www.stumblingintoinfinity.com/

Michael’s book: Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment

Transcript of this interview

Interview recorded 1/2/2011.

Audio and video below. Audio also available as a Podcast.

YouTube Video Chapters:

  • 00:00:00 – Introduction to Michael Fischman and the Art of Living Foundation
  • 00:03:21 – An Apparition of My Grandfather and the Fear of Death
  • 00:05:46 – A Glimpse of Sri Sri
  • 00:08:37 – Interacting with an Enlightened Master
  • 00:11:40 – The Power of Sudarshan Kriya
  • 00:14:05 – The Phenomenon of Sudarshan Kriya
  • 00:16:57 – Bringing Everything Into Alignment
  • 00:19:09 – From Aggression to Empathy and Understanding
  • 00:21:55 – Celebration and Integration in Life
  • 00:24:29 – The Importance of a Teacher in Spiritual Growth
  • 00:27:14 – The Expansion of Consciousness and the Private Life
  • 00:29:35 – Love as a Global Phenomenon
  • 00:31:57 – Finding Purpose in Life and Serving Others
  • 00:34:05 – Enriching Your Life by Making a Difference
  • 00:36:03 – Softening Conflict in the Middle East
  • 00:38:36 – Stereotyping and Attracting Negativity
  • 00:41:06 – The Power of Sudarshan Kriya
  • 00:43:26 – Funding Inner City Schools through Donations
  • 00:46:24 – The Power of Being Present
  • 00:48:56 – Being Centered in the Midst of Trying Situations
  • 00:51:02 – The Witnessing State and Taking Responsibility for Your Feelings
  • 00:53:06 – Taking Responsibility for Your Emotions
  • 00:55:20 – Personal Empowerment and Service to Others
  • 00:57:12 – Recharging through breathing techniques and meditation
  • 00:59:30 – The Diversity of Spiritual Paths
  • 01:01:58 – The Power of Unconditional Love
  • 01:04:37 – The Guru’s Care for Others
  • 01:07:35 – The Mysterious Ways of the Guru
  • 01:10:59 – The Importance of Proximity to an Enlightened Master
  • 01:13:50 – Accessibility of the Master